Bob Crantz wrote:

What is the proper location for the end of the whisker pole that attaches to
the mast?

Should the pole be level?

Does it matter?


Yes it matters, but what is "proper" depends on the goal. Do
you have to conform to a set of class rules? Do you have an
adjustable whisker pole? Are you sailing along lazily or do
you have a skilled helmsman concentrating or even racing?
How strong is the wind and what are the wave conditions?

FWIW I agree with Alan G that a good location is opposite
the gooseneck (for strength).

If it's gusty or wavy, you want the butt of the pole up
higher to hold the clew down rigidly. If light air, you want
the butt down low to allow the leach to flow as much as
possible. If sailing lazily, you might set the butt down on
the deck and lash it to a lifeline stanchion to hold it. If
you're sailing in a one-design class then you have to do
what everybody else does.

Everything is always different, that's one of the fun things
about sailing.

Fresh Breezes- Doug King